Sensory-Friendly Home Modifications

Articles

Jun 1

Individuals of all ages may struggle with sensory processing issues. Those with Autism Spectrum Disorder (ASD) in particular may experience sensory overload in certain situations. Sensory integration is the process in which your brain understands and manages the varying sensory input it receives. When that integration is disrupted or has trouble, the brain is less able to make sense of the experience and can become stressed. In the US, one in 54 children have been identified with ASD and may struggle with sensory integration. As healthcare providers and therapists continue to learn and better understand the spectrum of symptoms these individuals experience, they are better prepared to provide guidance for accommodations.

Sensory Systems

Identifying the three main sensory systems is the first step to understanding how to adapt the home environment to better suit individuals with sensory processing disorders.

Tactile

Most people would understand the sensory quality of this system simply by its name. The tactile system refers to the sensation of touch and even pain. It also involves the sensory experience of temperature and the feeling of physical pressure.

Vestibular

Your body has an innate sense of balance that develops as a child walks and learns how to move their body. The vestibular system refers to the way a person is able to move, their balance, as well as the position of their head (which affects balance as well).

Proprioceptive

The actions we take while moving such as walking, running, picking something up, or sitting down seem almost automatic for many individuals. A person’s awareness of their body’s position is the proprioceptive system, which tells them how to move naturally.

Many individuals with ASD may have issues with one or more of these sensory systems. Some may be “sensory seeking,” meaning they would require additional sensory input that a typical level, while others are “sensory avoidant,” meaning they would require a reduction in sensory input in some area. There are many ways to address the idea of sensory integration in your own home to better suit the needs of a child or family member with ASD or a sensory processing disorder. Making these changes can help regulate mood and provide a safe and stable environment for those you love. When starting to examine your home to make sensory-friendly modifications, consider how each room may affect the senses.

Sound

One consideration to keep in mind is that many individuals with ASD may have a heightened ability to hear sound. Sounds that seem normal to you or others may be interpreted as much louder in the mind of someone with ASD. Hearing loud sounds on a regular basis can feel uncomfortable and cause undue stress. When addressing the sound levels in your home, some areas are more obvious than others, such as the television or a device with controllable levels of sound. Other things you may not consider are things like the flooring. Walking on hardwood or tile flooring can make loud noises with each step. Carpet, carpet pads, and rugs are a simple way to make high-traffic areas less noisy.

Controlling the noise inside the home is typically an easier task than controlling the ever-changing variables outside of the house. Many neighborhoods are situated near construction sites or busy roads. The windows and walls in your home can be modified to better provide insulation from the sound outside. Certain types of wall insulation and thicker windows with greater insulation provide a stronger sound barrier. If overhauling the entirety of your home is not an option, consider making these modifications in the room of the person experiencing sensory processing problems. When these options are completely unavailable, noise-cancelling headphones and soothing noise machines may help.

Sight

Stimulus from light and color can be overwhelming for some individuals with ASD. Natural light is typically the best option instead of relying solely on light bulbs whenever possible. Some light bulbs cast an artificial color which can make some individuals with sensory processing disorders uncomfortable. Other types of bulbs, such as fluorescent lighting, can sometimes make a buzzing sound or have a slight flicker. While typical individuals may not notice, it can be incredibly disruptive for a person with ASD.

Overall color is another consideration for a person with a sensory processing disorder. They may see colors very intensely and therefore would be uncomfortable in a brightly decorated room. Organization of the items in your home is another factor to consider. It helps to have specific places for things in your home to help them feel more at ease in their space.

Smell

For some individuals, burning incense or scented candles can be soothing. Individuals with ASD may have a heightened sense of smell and can be triggered by certain scents. Be mindful of what scents are present in your home. Whether you are cooking or painting a room in the house, ventilation can help ease the problem. It may be worthwhile to invest in a more effective ventilation system in your home to help remove odors and keep the air fresh. Avoiding any scent made with chemicals or artificial ingredients can help you reduce the issue of sensory overload due to scent.

Touch

The tactile spaces in your home are a major consideration when address home-modifications for a person with ASD. Furnishings such as a couch or chair may be made of a particular texture which is upsetting. Fabrics or textiles which are excessively rough or excessively soft can trigger an uncomfortable sensory response for a person with ASD. Plants which are safe for children with ASD to interact with are a great way to introduce a soothing tactile experience in your home.

There are so many ways to introduce sensory-friendly elements to your home, such as providing a room designed to satisfy different sensory needs. Sensory bins of different types are a great way to provide sensory input for your child in a fun and safe way. You can find ideas for DIY sensory bins in our resources section. A designated space to calm down is another consideration to implement in your home. Children with ASD may be more likely to have meltdowns while experiencing sensory overload, and having a space which is designed to be soothing for them in particular could provide a greater sense of comfort.

Looking for more ways to learn? Our resources provide information for families of all types. Find games, activities, and ways you can work on your child’s development through play!